BA 209 Introduction to Social Media

Lecture Hours: 4
Credits: 4

Introduces the impact and benefits of social media in businesses and organizations. Explores the components and trends of social media. Researches best practices of social networks across organizations. Examines social media marketing tools and strategies for implementation in business.

Recommended: Placement into WR 121Z; and completion of BA 101Z with a grade of C or better; and computer literacy.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Explain the social media benefits, risks and responsibilities for businesses and organizations. I
Analyze business trends in social media. I-II
Examine the components of developing successful social media engagement and relationship building in the business setting. II-III
Analyze tools, platforms and strategies to advance a company’s social media involvement and success. II-IV
Examine the elements necessary for a business to create a successful social media marketing plan in alignment with its goals. IV

Content Outline

Social Media for Business
- Social media benefits
- Social media risks
- Social media responsibilities for businesses
- Social media policies
- Privacy concerns
- Emerging trends
Social Media Platforms and Tools
- Platform analyses and social media avenues
- Demographics of social media use
- Listening and monitoring approaches
- Tools and resources
- Changing technologies and priorities
Business Applications of Social Media
- Building an audience
- Managing relationships
- Enhancing engagement
- Public relations
- Customer service activities
- Recruitment
Social Media Marketing
- Social media marketing plan elements
- Advertising
- Measuring success and effectiveness